Gary Stevens

On Friday, the classic stretch duel in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff lasted more than a quarter of a mile and will long be remembered as one for the ages.

There was 6-year-old Beholder, in her last race, and 3-year-old Songbird, just getting started and undefeated in 11 tries, trading the lead side-by-side until the final stride when Beholder barely pushed in front.

The official margin was a nose but it seemed even closer. Call it a nostril.

Neither horse would give in. Some thought Beholder, who had lost three in a row and was defeated by Stellar Wind twice this year, was a shade past her prime.

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